Belgium loses appeal of Balogun eligibility after Trump defends intervention with FIFA

FIFA's Appeal Committee dismissed Belgium's challenge regarding Folarin Balogun's eligibility to play against Belgium in the World Cup after a red card suspension. The Royal Belgian Football Association's appeal was deemed inadmissible.

Balogun's suspension was previously overturned following intervention from U.S. President Trump, who requested a review of the red card incident. The RBFA expressed astonishment at FIFA's decision and accused FIFA of not providing an explanation for Balogun's eligibility.

UEFA criticized FIFA's ruling as unprecedented and harmful to the integrity of the competition. The U.S. team will face Belgium in Seattle in the Round of 16.